Hydroxyethyl Acrylate

Hydroxyethyl acrylate is a clear, colourless liquid with a faintly pungent odour. It is readily miscible with water and a wide range of common organic solvents. It belongs to a group of chemicals known as volatile organic compounds.

Hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) can be used to attach hydroxyl groups to an acrylic polymer backbone. It is produced by reacting ethylene oxide with acrylic acid. The pendant hydroxyl can then in turn be used as sites for reaction with a variety of cross-linking agents. HEA has several advantages over hydroxyalkyl methacrylates in that it allows for faster curing cycles and/or reduced baking temperatures.

Applications of Hydroxyethyl Acrylate

Hydroxyethyl acrylate can be used in a number of ways to produce resins for use in high-performance coatings such as those used in automotive, appliance and metal coatings. It is also used in pressure-sensitive adhesives, emulsion polymers, printing inks, concrete and cement and as an additive in ion exchange resins and a range of personal care products.

Storage and Handling

Hydroxyethyl acrylate should be stored in a tightly-closed container in a cool place away from sources of ignition, sunlight and moisture. Store below 4°C.

Handle in accordance with good industry practices for safety and hygiene. Avoid contact with skin by wearing chemical resistant outer clothing, hat, boots, goggles and gloves. Wear trousers outside boots and tape sleeves to gloves to avoid chemical contact with skin. Wear suitable eye protection as contact with the liquid or vapour may cause serious injury and corneal damage. Vapours, especially from the heated material, can cause severe irritation to the respiratory tract, other adverse effects and even death, therefore suitable respiratory protection should be provided and appropriate training programs, work processes and engineering controls must be implemented.